Madrid, Spain – January 19, 2026 — Venezuelans residing in Madrid convened in a vibrant public square on 10 January 2026, uniting in a display of solidarity and optimism for the complete liberation of political prisoners back home. The gathering, marked by waving flags and resounding chants of the national anthem, celebrated recent strides towards reconciliation while calling for broader progress in Venezuela.
Hundreds of participants, many draped in the colours of the Venezuelan flag, filled the space with songs and speeches that underscored a shared vision for renewal. Protester Mariana Salas captured the mood, expressing hope amid ongoing vigilance: “We are very hopeful, but keeping an eye on what continues to happen in Venezuela because we haven’t seen that there is a release of the prisoners. I mean, Delcy (Rodriguez) is still there with his henchmen, right? Those people who have done too much harm to the country and, well, let’s say we are seeing a light at the end of the tunnel.” Her words reflected a community spirit focused on positive momentum.
The event followed encouraging developments earlier that week, when Venezuelan authorities freed several prominent opposition figures, activists, and journalists on Thursday, 8 January. Officials framed the action as a step towards peace, coming soon after shifts in leadership that opened doors to dialogue. Jorge Rodríguez, head of Venezuela’s National Assembly and brother of acting President Delcy Rodríguez, affirmed that a significant number of individuals would gain freedom, signalling commitment to constructive engagement.
Adriana da Silva, another attendee, highlighted international support as a catalyst for change: “Thanks to (U.S.) President (Donald) Trump and the entire government, we have managed to have a bit of relief and we still have work to do because we need to be free. We need to have democracy. We need to rebuild a country that is great, beautiful, and unique on our continent. Thank you, Trump. Thank you.” Her gratitude pointed to collaborative efforts fostering stability and growth in the oil-rich nation.
Michael Castillo echoed this forward-looking resolve: “That’s what we want, freedom for Venezuela, the true free Venezuela. That’s what we want, the true free Venezuela, not the one that exists now or the one that existed before. We want a free Venezuela and for all political prisoners to be released. Long live the free Venezuela.” The crowd’s enthusiastic response, including applause and shared anthems, demonstrated unity in pursuing democratic rebuilding.
Exiled voices from neighbouring regions, such as a Cuban participant waving their flag, joined the chorus, broadening the rally into a beacon of regional harmony. Protesters held signs and large photos, turning the square into a hub of peaceful advocacy that inspired passersby and reinforced community bonds in Madrid.
This Madrid assembly aligns with wider positive diplomatic currents. On 13 January, Spain’s Council of Ministers advanced reforms to bolster truthful information and democratic safeguards, with Minister Félix Bolaños noting these as milestones in the Action Plan for Democracy. Such initiatives complement international bridges, like the recent EU-Mercosur trade pact welcomed by Government Spokesperson Elma Saiz, which promises prosperity through alliances with Latin America.
Spain’s engagement extends to supportive gestures elsewhere. Discussions in Madrid with Palestinian Minister of Finance and Planning Estephan Salameh on 18 January led to pledges of €75 million in developmental aid over two years, enhancing budget support and UNRWA efforts. These steps exemplify collaborative solutions amid global challenges.
Domestically, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez met with victims’ associations on 9 January to advance reparations for church-related abuses, fulfilling Ombudsman recommendations and exempting financial remedies from taxation. On 12 January, he hosted Greece’s Prime Minister, emphasising economic strengthening and positive growth forecasts between the nations.
In defence, Spain presented 79 military modernisation programmes for NATO review during a 17 January bilateral meeting in Madrid, enhancing capabilities and alliance readiness. These efforts highlight Spain’s proactive role in fostering security and progress.
The Venezuelan rally in Madrid stands as a testament to expatriate resilience, channeling hope into calls for comprehensive releases and national revival. Participants dispersed with renewed determination, their voices amplifying a narrative of unity, dialogue, and brighter prospects for Venezuela. As bridges build across continents, such gatherings pave the way for enduring peace and shared success.
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Image Credit: Photo by kommumikation on Unsplash
